If you’ve ever had to deal with a wet-walk tantrum, you’ll know all too well the importance of waterproofs. While jackets and welly boots go so far, it’s waterproof trousers which will prevent soggy knees after that inevitable fall when chasing siblings, or when muddy puddles reach dizzy heights.
And if autumn and winter in Blighty provide only one thing, it’s a deluge of rainy days. But waterproof trousers aren’t just for colder months, invest in the right pair and they’ll be set for year-round adventures, from windy winters to April showers.
So, what do you need to consider when choosing the perfect pair? First of all, it’s worth questioning what they’ll be used for and how often. Are you an active family who often brave the elements? Or do you simply need an extra layer for drizzly walks home after nursery?
Waterproof rating protection is often measured in millimetres which relates to how high a column of water standing on the fabric would need to be before the water would penetrate the fabric. A rating of 10,000mm offers medium protection for activities such as hiking, moderate rain, snow and wind, meaning it’s more than adequate from the splashback from extreme puddle jumping or exploring in the rain.
But on top of being waterproof, you’ll also want a level of breathability, otherwise you’ll keep the water out but soon be wet from stickiness. Another important factor is the seams and zips as they’ll need to be waterproof too. Needle-stitched seams create thousands of small holes that allow water to sneak inside, so welded or taped seams is what you’ll want to prevent leaks. Many trousers we tested also have stirrups – be sure to make sure these go over the wellies, not inside, for the best waterproof protection.
Most of all you’ll want to find a pair of quality waterproof trousers. Durability is key when it comes to dressing active children – particularly when you have the elements to contend with. Happy splashing everyone.
How we tested
We tested a range of waterproof pull-on trousers, dungarees and overalls with the help of our four and six-year-old testers. They were put to the test on muddy woodland walks, during forest school antics and some out-of-season beach exploring.
We looked at the quality, comfort, cost but what mattered the most was keeping our testers dry! Not to be overlooked is style – after all, getting your child to dress appropriately is no easy feat – and taking sustainability into account, we also favoured those with eco credentials.
The best kid’s waterproof trousers for 2023 are:
- Best overall – Polarn O. Pyret shell waterproof kids trousers: £25, Polarnopyret.co.uk
- Best for active kids – Spotty Otter adventure waterproof trousers: £60, Spottyotter.co.uk
- Best for sustainability – Frugi puddle buster trousers: £29, Babipur.co.uk
- Best for warmth – Muddy Puddles ecosplash trousers: £36, Muddypuddles.com
- Best compact waterproof trousers – JoJo Maman Bébé pack-away waterproof trousers: £22, Jojomamanbebe.co.uk
- Best for dressing independently – Kidunk waterproof eco trouser, all seasons, plum: £30, Kidunk.com
- Best range of colours – Dry Kids PU splash turquoise unlined dungarees: £17.95, Drykids.co.uk
- Best fun design – Joules bayfield waterproof packable trousers: £11.95, Joules.com
- Best budget buy – Next waterproof trousers: £10, Next.co.uk